Magonia - No 53 - 1995 08

Magazine Overview

Title: Magonia
Issue: 53
Date: August 1995
Publisher: Magonia Magazine
Country: United Kingdom
Cover Headline: Blood, Vision and Brimstone: abductions, abuse and the apocalyptic imagination

This issue of Magonia, titled "Magonia 53", published in August 1995, delves into two primary, interconnected themes: the evolving nature of ufology, particularly its shift towards 'post-secular' interpretations, and the controversial phenomenon of stage hypnosis.

Blood, Vision and Brimstone: The Transformation of Ufology

The lead article, "Blood, Vision and Brimstone" by Peter Rogerson, explores how ufology is transforming from a secular to a more 'religious' or 'apocalyptic' perspective. This shift is characterized by three central theories:

• Blood: This theory posits that a higher proportion of individuals experiencing UFO encounters and near-death experiences (NDEs) have a history of childhood abuse, including neglect, negative home atmospheres, and sexual abuse. Kenneth Ring's work is cited, suggesting that such trauma can lead to dissociative responses and a heightened sensitivity to 'other realities' as a defense mechanism.
• Vision: This aspect suggests that as a result of these traumatic experiences, individuals become more open to extrasensory perception (ESP) and 'non-ordinary realities'. They may perceive themselves as being partly or wholly 'other' in origin.
• Brimstone: At the core of this post-secular ufology is an apocalyptic vision. Abductions and other anomalous experiences are interpreted as signs of the End Times, with contactees seen as heralds of a 'New Age' of transformation.

Richard Boylan is also mentioned, claiming an over-representation of individuals with traumatic childhoods, including those who were sexually abused, children of military officers, and offspring of intelligence agents, among experiencers. Boylan interprets these categories through a lens of paranoia, suggesting collaboration between military and intelligence agents with aliens.

The article notes that this perspective moves beyond secular ufology, drawing parallels to older beliefs like the 'fairy faith', where a 'fairy god-mother' might assist a child victim of abuse.

The Hypno-show Controversy

Another significant feature, "is the colour... the hypno-show controversy" by Michael Goss, examines the complex and often sensationalized world of stage hypnosis. The article highlights the rise of performers like Paul McKenna, who achieved celebrity status through television appearances and home-hypnosis videos.

The piece discusses how stage hypnosis acts, particularly those marketed as 'adult' or 'comedy', often rely on predictable routines and sexually suggestive content. Examples include the 'X-Ray Specs' routine, negative hallucinations, and simulated sexual acts. The article details various reported incidents, including:

• Simulated Sex: Subjects engaging in acts with objects, such as inflatable dolls or cuddly toys, sometimes believing they are interacting with celebrities.
• Oral Sex: Subjects believing they are performing oral sex on an object, which is actually a vibrator.
• Cross-Dressing and Striptease: Routines involving subjects dressing in inappropriate attire or performing stripteases, often with a sexual undertone.

The article raises concerns about the potential for harm, citing cases like that of Sharron Tabarn, who was found dead hours after a hypno-show, with her mother campaigning against stage hypnosis. Another case involves Ann Hazard, who broke her leg after jumping off a stage during a hypnosis performance. The case of Chris Gates, who allegedly suffered mental deterioration after a Paul McKenna show, led to a review of stage hypnosis regulations.

Legal and Ethical Debates

The legal framework for stage hypnosis, primarily the Hypnotism Act 1952, is discussed, noting the requirement for licenses and the varying diligence of local authorities. The article questions whether existing laws are sufficient and whether they are adequately enforced. It also explores the legal liability of hypnotists for the actions of their subjects.

A debate is presented regarding the very existence of hypnosis, with Dr Graham Wagstaff suggesting it might be a social construct rather than a genuine altered state. This perspective challenges the notion of 'hypnotic suggestions' and implies that any indecent acts performed would simply be a transgression of 'Indecency Laws' without the extenuating excuse of hypnosis.

However, the article acknowledges that the public's perception of hypnosis as a unique state is what fuels the popularity of stage shows. It notes that while some performers might be genuinely concerned about after-effects, the demand for audacious acts and the pressure to 'perform' can lead to problematic situations.

Other Content

The issue also includes an editorial by John Rimmer titled "From Roswell to Oklahoma City," which connects UFO sightings to the Timothy McVeigh case and discusses the growing overlap between ufology and right-wing conspiracy theories, exemplified by figures like William Cooper and David Icke. The editorial criticizes publications that promote such ideas and warns against legitimizing them.

There are also sections for "Book Reviews," "Letters," and a "BackPage Competition."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of belief and experience, with a particular focus on UFO phenomena, anomalous experiences, and the psychological underpinnings of such events. The editorial stance appears critical of sensationalism and the conflation of ufology with extremist ideologies or unsubstantiated conspiracy theories. There is a clear concern for the ethical implications of both stage hypnosis and the broader discourse surrounding UFOs, particularly regarding potential harm to individuals and the spread of misinformation. The magazine seems to advocate for a more critical and discerning approach to these subjects, distinguishing between genuine investigation and speculative or politically motivated narratives.

MAGONIA 52 is an issue of the magazine Magonia, published in 1995. It features a cover story titled "BRIMSTONE" and includes articles on ufology, apocalypticism, and folklore, alongside book reviews.

Main Articles and Themes

Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy, Poltergeists, and Abductions

The issue opens by exploring the case of Beverley Allett, whose behavior, including alleged poltergeist effects, is compared to Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy (MHS). The article posits that MHS patients exhibit manipulative and attention-seeking behaviors, drawing parallels with adult survivors of Satanic abuse stories and individuals with Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD). The text highlights how MHS patients can be ruthless manipulators of therapists and researchers, wreaking havoc in sessions. The article suggests that MHS might be linked to pathological lying, self-mutilation, induced anorexia, borderline personality disorder, and a history of abusive childhoods. The role of poltergeist effects in Allett's repertoire is emphasized as a means of manipulation. Comparisons are drawn to historical cases like Marianne Foyster ('Widow of Borley'), Betsy Bell, Ms Forbes, and Eleanor Zurgun, all of whom exhibited similar traits of self-harm, manipulation, and alleged supernatural phenomena.

The article delves into the possibility that MHS might be a manifestation of underlying psychological issues, citing Jim Schnabel's description of 'Lucy,' who claimed abduction and invasion by aliens, and 'Marie,' who manipulated her tutor with tales of illness and trauma. The text also references Linda Neapolitano's and Claire's narratives of alleged kidnappings and harassment. Robert Bartholemew is quoted as arguing that MHS is essentially deception, but the author concedes that the extreme nature of cases like Allett's suggests a profound underlying illness.

The 'Vision' of Abduction and the 'Star-Child' Folklore

The 'VISION' section discusses the concept of 'initiation' as a process of separation and transformation, often experienced by abductees. Mack's concept of abductees making a 'pilgrimage' for a new dimension of experience is explored, involving a 'rebirth' and a return to a 'preternatural primordial area.' Patrick Harpur suggests that individuals can be 'unwittingly initiated' by life's exigencies, with the experience's significance lying in how it is used for self-transformation. Trauma shock is identified as a potential source of spontaneous initiation, leading to feelings of helplessness.

The article connects these experiences to sleep paralysis, which involves overwhelming terror, paralysis, and helplessness. It suggests that the imagery developed in these episodes might be linked to the 'imaginal realm' or 'anima mundi,' a transpersonal realm of images. This perspective is associated with 'witness-centred' ufology, where encounters are seen as religious experiences or encounters with primordial depths. The idea of 'mind at large' is presented as a conscious, intelligent aspect of mind capable of interacting with matter.

However, the text raises questions about the 'talents' claimed by witnesses, suggesting they are not necessarily the result of the encounter but perhaps a defense mechanism against emotionally unstable carers or a form of ESP. The concept of the 'investigator' providing an ideological framework is also mentioned.

The 'star-child' folklore is explored, detailing stories of individuals who believe they are aliens incarnated on Earth, often with a mission to help humanity. This theme is linked to the idea of 'real' parents being extraterrestrial, a concept found in the work of Mack and Jenny Randles. The article notes that many of these 'star maidens' were victims of childhood abuse, leading to feelings of alienation. The star-seed legend is traced back to earlier works, including George Hunt Williamson's 'Other Tongues Other Flesh,' which described 'Wanderers' who voluntarily chose to be incarnated on Earth.

Apocalypticism and the 'End Times'

The 'BRIMSTONE' section examines the apocalyptic imagination, starting with the near-death experience (NDE) of Dannian Brinkley, who received visions of the End-Time, including prophecies of global conflict and technological control. Brinkley's mission to build meditation rooms and his subsequent acquisition of telepathic and other 'wild talents' are described.

The article notes the cultural symbolism in Brinkley's visions, linking them to prophecies of the Gulf War and the Battle of Armageddon, as well as the antichrist figure. It also discusses the apocalyptic tone of the Ghost Dance movement and the visions of modern near-death experiencers who foresee catastrophe and the rebuilding of a new world. The influence of folk images, such as the sinking of California and pole shifts, is highlighted, often reflecting the visionary's political views.

Similar apocalyptic visions are produced through techniques of post-life progression, with themes of catastrophe, including Soviet attacks and ecological disasters. The issue suggests that these visions are influenced by contemporary fundamentalist writings and the 'New Age' movement, which offers simple solutions to complex problems through a catastrophic cleansing of the world.

Post-secular ufology is presented as part of a revolt against the 'dream of the secular city,' with Jerome Clark predicting a breakdown of collective unconscious leading to madness, superstition, and terror. The article connects these predictions to contemporary events like wars, the rise of the religious right, and nationalism.

The abduction myth, with its themes of manipulation, rape, and helplessness, is seen as articulating many of these fears. However, the author questions whether these UFO myths can seriously replace older myths of flag and altar.

Book Reviews

The issue includes several book reviews:

• Lost at Sea: Ghost Ships and Other Mysteries by Michael Goss and George Behe: This book explores speculation surrounding vanishing ships, focusing on folklore and alleged psychic experiences related to maritime disasters, including the legend of the phantom ship Lady Luvibond and experiments in telepathic communication.
• King Arthur and the Grail Quest by John Matthews: A popular market book that provides a selection of Arthurian and Grail legends, well-illustrated and readable.
• UFO: the complete sightings catalogue by Peter Brookesmith: Praised as a good reference work for understanding ufology, it details historical periods of the UFO myth with key cases, providing background and the author's assessment. The book is noted for its relevant illustrations and clear labeling of obvious fakes.
• Are We Alone?: philosophical Implications of the discovery of extra-terrestrial life by Paul Davies: This book discusses the 'escalator theory' of evolution and progress, suggesting that advanced civilizations are revealing divine truth and propelling humanity towards them. It critiques the assumption that contemporary Western culture is inevitable and widespread in the galaxy.
• Fortean Studies, Volume 1 edited by Steve Moore and The Anomalist: 1 edited by Patrick Huyghe and Dennis Stacy: These publications are highlighted as important developments in Fortean publishing, featuring well-researched essays on a variety of topics, including the 'Devil's Footprints' of 1855 and spontaneous combustion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Magonia are the intersection of psychological phenomena (MHS, MPD, sleep paralysis) with alleged paranormal events (poltergeists, abductions), the pervasive influence of apocalyptic narratives in both religious and secular contexts (ufology, New Age), and the exploration of folklore and myth in understanding human experience. The editorial stance appears to be critical and analytical, questioning the interpretations of researchers and authors while acknowledging the complexity and often disturbing nature of the phenomena discussed. There is a clear interest in the psychological underpinnings of belief and experience, and a tendency to connect contemporary UFO beliefs with older mythic and religious traditions.

Magonia 52 is an issue of the Magonia journal, published in 1995, focusing on topics related to the paranormal, UFOs, and psychology. The issue features book reviews, a competition, and a news report.

Book Reviews

Lucid Dreaming; the paradox of consciousness during sleep by Celia Green and Charles McCreer

This book, from the Institute of Psychophysical Research, explores lucid dreams, where dreamers are aware they are dreaming and can control dream events, as well as 'metachoric experiences' where the entire perceptual field is hallucinated. Chapters 6, 7, and 8 discuss false awakenings, sleep paralysis, apparitions, and waking dreams, suggesting a link between Type 2' false awakenings and sleep paralysis. The reviewer notes that the authors seem unaware of Hufford's work on the 'Old Hag' phenomenon.

Project Delta: a study of multiple UFOs by Richard Haines

This book is described as a return to 'basics ufology' for those weary of complex narratives. It catalogues cases where multiple UFOs were seen, arranged by headings rather than date. However, the reviewer criticizes the book for its reliance on old and often second-hand accounts, with over three-quarters of the cases occurring more than 25 years ago and nearly half more than 40 years ago. Haines assumes UFOs are mechanical devices and argues they must be 'alien craft' due to their performance, but the reviewer suggests cultural influences from the 1940s and 1950s, such as wartime experiences and 'Martian Bomber' ideas, may have shaped perceptions.

Science in the New Age: the paranormal, its defenders and debunkers and American culture by David J. Hess

This sociological analysis examines three groups: New Agers, psychics, and sceptics. Hess shows how they construct heroic self-images and differentiate themselves from 'the other'. For Rhine, 'the other' was scientific materialism; for sceptics, it's the chaotic occult; and for New Agers, it's greed and materialism. All groups see themselves as open-minded. Hess also discusses gender, suggesting the sceptics' 'paranormal other' is often female and that traditional sex stereotyping exists in skeptical literature. He references his anthropological studies in Brazil, where 'poltergeist victims' used experiences to restructure domestic power relations. Hess notes New Agers are more open to treating mind and body holistically, moving away from Platonic/Cartesian dualism. The reviewer highly recommends the book.

Victims of Memory: incest accusations and shattered lives by Mark Pendergrast

This book surveys the phenomenon of recovered memories, particularly in the context of child abuse accusations. Pendergrast, a professional writer, explores the social and historical roots of this controversy, touching on UFO abductions, reincarnation, Satanic cults, hypnotism, and witch mania. He discusses 'facilitated communication' and Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), noting the latter's similarity to channeling and its likely cultural origins in stories like 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde'. Pendergrast argues that such beliefs are part of a wider climate of irrational therapy in the US, where a significant portion of therapists accept the validity of past-life regression and endorse beliefs in demonic possession. The book includes interviews with therapists, accused, and accusers, and discusses the role of the women's movement and cultural shifts. Pendergrast also recounts the personal tragedy of his daughters' estrangement due to recovered memories. The reviewer praises the book as essential reading for understanding contemporary culture and society.

Competition Time

This section announces the winners of a previous competition to create slogans for UFO and Fortean magazines. Neil Nixon, Paul Screeton, and David Sivier are highlighted for their entries. A new competition is introduced, asking readers to create acronyms for well-known magazines in their fields, with a requirement to include a 'libelous acronym for Magonia'. Prizes include a rare collector's edition book and a subscription extension.

The Curse of Magonia

This short piece reports that Ringpull Books, a publisher previously criticized by Magonia, has gone bust. The company, described as 'Britain's hippest publisher', faced financial difficulties, with the final straw being plans to publish 'La Philosophie de Eric Cantona'. The Managing Director admitted the company never had money.

The New Pretenders

This section discusses a new panic arising from 'bogus' individuals posing as professionals. It highlights an incident from the Epsom and Banstead Guardian about a bogus midwife who examined a pregnant woman. The article notes that untrained people posing as doctors, ambulancemen, and paramedics is a long-standing problem. It also mentions recent stories of bogus social workers and speculates about the emergence of bogus ufologists. The section draws parallels with historical instances of impersonation, including a man convicted of impersonating a police officer. The article invites readers to share similar stories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of paranormal beliefs, psychological phenomena, and societal trends. There's a critical stance towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly in ufology, and a focus on the psychological and sociological underpinnings of these beliefs. The magazine appears to champion critical analysis and rigorous research, as evidenced by the critiques of Haines' book and the in-depth review of Pendergrast's work on recovered memories. The editorial stance leans towards skepticism regarding sensationalist claims while acknowledging the cultural significance of these phenomena. The recurring theme of 'irrationality' in therapy and societal beliefs, particularly in the US, is a prominent thread throughout the reviewed works.